In a unique initiative for a heartfelt tribute to the impactful five decades of the presence of M. A. Yusuffali in the UAE, entrepreneur and visionary healthcare leader Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil has announced a philanthropic contribution to sponsor 50 lifesaving heart surgeries for children, particularly from conflict zones and underprivileged backgrounds.
The announcement was made to pay homage to Yusuffali’s contribution to humanitarian causes and his impactful life. Yusuffali is a well-known business tycoon, one of the wealthiest non-resident Indians (NRI) globally, and the chairman of Lulu Group International. Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil is the founder and chairman of Burjeel Holdings, a healthcare group in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. His philanthropic initiatives extend to India through his office, VPS Healthcare. He is married to Yusul Ali’s eldest daughter, Dr. Shabeena Yusuffali, who happens to be the vice chairman of VPS Healthcare.
Dr. Vayalil added that Mr. Yusuffali has touched many lives with his unwavering compassion and humanity, which are integral to their family ethos. Through this initiative, they wish to generate opportunities for children to overcome obstacles and dream beyond their limitations. He further added that Yusuffali, who arrived in Dubai from Kerala in December 1973 with a humble beginning, created a business empire while handling the roles of a community leader, philanthropist, and beacon of hope for those in need.
The 50 heart surgeries will be conducted for children with congenital heart diseases under the aegis of Burjeel Holdings at hospitals in the UAE, Oman, and the group’s hospitals in India. Such surgeries are expensive and often pose a financial challenge to many parents.
Dr. Vayalil added that these surgeries would symbolize a collective commitment to building a child’s future through medical intervention, which would enable every child to thrive and contribute to society. He further stated that he is optimistic about this novel and heartfelt initiative’s global outreach and impact. Following the announcement, the group has started inviting applications from the parents of eligible and deserving children.
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil also mentioned the noteworthy support that the Indian business leaders receive from the UAE leadership, which has made their businesses successful. He is also hopeful that the historic connection between the UAE and India, along with the political will of the leaders of both countries, will forge closer links in the future.
(Inputs from various sources)
(Rehash/Dr. Sushmita Ganguli)
